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Holmgren's Quiet Game Costs Thunder Championship Hopes
1 Jun
Summary
- Holmgren scored four points and grabbed four rebounds in Game 7.
- Gilgeous-Alexander scored 35 points but it wasn't enough for victory.
- The Spurs will face the Knicks in the NBA Finals.
The Oklahoma City Thunder's championship aspirations were dashed in Game 7 of the Western Conference Finals, with a notably quiet performance from All-Star big man Chet Holmgren.
Holmgren managed only four points and four rebounds in 33 minutes during the decisive home loss to the San Antonio Spurs. This lack of offensive contribution proved critical as the Thunder lost 111-103, ending their pursuit of back-to-back titles.
Despite the team's overall failure to meet expectations, reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered a strong performance, scoring a game-high 35 points. However, his efforts were ultimately insufficient.
Following the Game 7 defeat, Gilgeous-Alexander publicly supported his teammate, emphasizing Holmgren's vital role in the Thunder's past successes and asserting that the team performs at its best when Holmgren is playing well.
Coach Mark Daigneault echoed these sentiments, acknowledging Holmgren's significance to the team's overall performance and future prospects. Holmgren himself expressed gratitude for the supportive words from his teammates and coach.
With their victory over the Thunder, the San Antonio Spurs have secured a spot in the NBA Finals, where they are set to compete against the New York Knicks.
